Brubaker Farms St. Johns County
Jeffrey and Carrie Brubaker own and operate Brubaker Farms in Elkton, FL. Brubaker Farms has produced potatoes and corn since the Brubaker’s took over the farm 40 years ago. With the 4th generation now on the farm, Brubaker is proud of the family-run business that was recognized as a Century Pioneer Farm in the 1980s. Brubaker Farms has implemented BMPs since the 1980s. BMPs are a set of guidelines that advise producers on how to manage the water, nutrient, and pesticides they are using to reduce agriculture’s impact on the state’s natural resources. Some of the BMPs that have been implemented include installments of water control structures in ditches to catch and hold runoff from the field. In addition, field leveling with GPS technology to ensure proper irrigation moisture. It is practices like these that ensure their land will remain productive and viable for future generations. Brubaker is involved in his community as a member of the North Florida Growers Exchange, past member of the St. Ambrose Catholic Church Parish Council, as well as overseeing completed renovations of the buildings at the church. When asked what he enjoys most about farming, Brubaker responded, “Each year is different and are always challenging. I enjoy being able to work hard and at the end of the day know I have done all I can for that day and at the end of the season, harvest your crop and enjoy knowing that with all the challenges, we have produced something amazing.”
